The Victorian Labor Government has announced the reinstatement of the Greener Government Buildings Program (GGB) to improve the state’s energy efficiency performance. The GGB will receive a $33 million investment over two years to improve government buildings and infrastructure, including:
- LED technology installed in all freeway lighting.
- Solar power and LED lighting installed in regional healthcare facilities and 200 schools.
- New lighting plus upgrades to heating and cooling systems for Gordon TAFE and Peninsula Health facilities.
The upgrades aim to improve the quality and efficiency of public hospitals and educational facilities, create hundreds of jobs across sectors, and deliver a stronger Victorian budget. Along with the recently launched Take 2 Pledge Program, the initiatives are estimated to abate 25, 000 tonnes of greenhouse gases per year, and result in up to $100 million in savings that would more than offset the initial investments.
The Energy Efficiency Council welcomed the announcement which aligns with their 2016/17 priorities for government action, and sees Victoria join NSW and South Australia in delivering on best practice energy efficiency programs.